Fueled Fashion and Art

THE CONCEPT

Founded by La Donna Finnels-Neal in 2013, the Fueled Fashion and Art Gala was born from a singular vision: to illuminate the energy industry’s profound impact on daily life through the lens of fashion and art. As a self-taught designer and a seasoned energy professional, Finnels-Neal saw a rare opportunity to unite two worlds—creating a platform that’s as educational as it is unforgettable. Houston, known globally as the “energy city,” deserves a showcase that reflects its innovation, influence, and cultural vibrancy. The Gala delivers just that. With runway presentations, curated art installations, and immersive storytelling, the event invites guests to experience energy in a new light—elegant, engaging, and electric.

LA DONNA FINNELS-NEAL

Founder and Producer – Fueled Fashion & Art Gala, Founder and CEO Energy Industry Support International, Oil & Gas Admins International, and La Donna Finnels Enterprises. Founder and Producer – OGE Conference & Vendor Exhibition.
💡Solutions Expert 🤝Connector 🪄Creator

MELODY MEYER

President Melody Meyer Energy, LLC, NE Director BP p.l.c., AbbVie Inc., Energy Internet Corp (EIC); Trinity University Trustee; National Bureau Asian Research, Advisory Board McKinsey Advancing Women Executives in Energy, Retired President Chevron

KATIE MEHNERT

CEO ALLY, Co-founder Houston AI, Advisor ECOPower Source, Advisor GeoEcoHub™, Representative National Petroleum Council, Advisor American Conservation Coalition, Founder Houston Energy and Climate Week, Founder Allies in Energy, Founder Lean In Energy

DANNY NGUYEN

Founder of Danny Nguyen Couture and Houston Fashion Week, he is a Houston-based couture fashion designer known for his intricate, handcrafted creations that blend traditional techniques with modern flair. Danny specializes in custom gowns, wedding dresses, áo dài, and alterations, with services offered in Houston, New York, Los Angeles, and Paris.

GLORIA RIVARDE

Gloria Rivarde is a trailblazing entrepreneur and one of New Orleans’s first top Black professional models, graced runways for Oscar De La Renta, Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Dior, and Ralph Lauren. Founder of Nu Images Models & Entertainment and chef for C’est Bon Creole Cuisine, she judges pageants, promotes talent, produces elite events, and caters exquisite cuisine. Her achievements earned recognition with certificates of honor from the City of Houston and a Special Congressional Award for Women of the Month.